T42 video chipset problem

[sgr1]

Hi there, i am new to this forum, and as you can guess the warranty for my laptop has already expired
The problem has been clearly identified, on startup my computer makes one long beep followed by 2 short ones, it works fine for one or two minutes and then the screen goes blank. A friend told me the beeps mean it's the video chipset.

So i wanted to know what's the best thing to do with my computer now. Can it be repaired by someone else than ibm? Is the price reasonable keeping in mind that the computer itself is not worth any more than 300-400euro ? I've already looked for spare parts on ebay but with no luck...

I had a look at a topic about reflowing video chipsets, could someone explain it to me simply because i didn't undestand a thing..

Otherwise what could i get out of it by selling the parts ? is it worth it ?
Has anyone else had the same problem and managed to fix it ?

Thank you for your replies

[cmarti]

Do a search on the forum here are a few threads that has all the info regarding reflowing.

My advise, buy a new mobo and replace the one on your machine if you plan to use your machine for a few more years.

[sgr1]

Sorry i'm a bit of a newb, by mobo you meen system board ? How much would that cost ?

[cmarti]

Sorry i'm a bit of a newb, by mobo you meen system board ? How much would that cost ?

There is a complete base in ebay

If you do it yourself you will save $$$

[sgr1]

As i live in France i didn't think of looking on ebay.com, thanks a lot !! My hopes are higher than ever !